How war, security and coalition math are shaping the Israeli election

Israeli voters will head to the polls Tuesday in an election with implications beyond the country’s borders.It is Israel’s first election since Hamas’ Oct. 7, 2023, attacks, which killed around 1,200 people and saw more than 250 abducted. The Palestinian Ministry of Health says Israel’s subsequent military campaign in Gaza has killed more than 74,500 people. It is also the first vote since the U.S. and Israel began their joint war against Iran in February.How Israel's elections workIsraelis vote for parties rather than directly electing a prime minister, with the Knesset’s 120 seats allocated through proportional representation. Parties must win at least 3.25% of the national vote to enter parliament.Because outright majorities are rare, parties typically form coalitions. The president asks a Knesset member — usually the leader best placed to assemble a 61-seat majority — to form a government. If repeated attempts fail, another election can be called.Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu (C) waves to his supporters during a Likud Party meet-and-greet held as part of the campaign ahead of Israel's legislative election, at King Solomon Hotel in Netanya on October 22, 2026. (Phot...